What are the current procedures and experiences for extending a visa at Chiang Mai Immigration?

Chiang Mai Immigration on 20 May was easy. Showed up with my paperwork from school to do my 90-day extension & notification.

1) Motorbike parking is across the street.

2) Must wear mask, get a temp check, and sticker. Setup seemed over the top but in reality it’s the safest setup I’ve seen.

3) A handful of English speaking volunteers on site. They are document checkers. A little helpful but not well versed in visas and rules.

4) You do NOT have to do your extension now as there is an amnesty until 31 July, but it’s suggested you do make your extensions as you would under normal circumstances.

Why?

Because no one knows what will happen after amnesty.

And in a best case scenario where it’s business as usual you will get to wait with hundreds of other people in line.

Remember the stories of people getting there at 4/5/6am for a number?

That’s not how I roll: I value speed and certainty.

I showed up at 2pm and was done in about 25 minutes. No interview with officer. Hand over your documents. Wait. Get your photo taken and pay. Wait. Get your passport back.

The volunteers were polite and cheerful. They’ll have fun with you. One suggested I just get married because I put money in the bank and come to immigration once a year. Easy he said.